• Explore and Discover One of the Last Frontiers in the World ...

    Jewel Cave

    National Monument South Dakota

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  • No Reservations in 2013

    Beginning January 2, 2013, Jewel Cave National Monument will not offer advanced ticket reservations, except for Wild Caving dates. Due to construction projects and assumed disruptions in service, ticket sales will occur on a first come first serve basis. More »

Natural Features & Ecosystems

Calcite rafts in Jewel Cave

Thin sheets of calcite formed on the surface of an ancient pool of water.  The pool is now gone, and only these delicate "calcite rafts" remain.

NPS Photo

The primary resource of Jewel Cave National Monument is the cave itself. Jewel Cave is a unique world of sparkling calcite crystals, delicate strands of gypsum, and other spectacular cave formations. It contains large rooms strewn with boulders, tight crawlways, and dark fissures leading into the unknown.

Did You Know?

Closeup of the head of an owl/NPS File Photo

Several birds, including the Northern Saw-whet and Great Horned owls, call Jewel Cave National Monument home. Bald eagles are occasional visitors to the park as well.